The Ultimate Power Wardrobe - How to Build a Corporate Office Appropriate Wardrobe that Gives You Confidence

Have you recently been promoted in a corporate office? Maybe it’s not a recent promotion, rather you are just looking to re-establish your role in the company and ensure your experience, skills, and confidence is clear. There are plenty of steps you can take to solidify your career within the company, but part of that senior level position you possess includes looking the part. Dressing in a way that is not only corporate office appropriate, but also exudes confidence and power, can help you to create the kind of persona that is necessary at work.
Here we’ll take a look at the steps you can take to build the ultimate power wardrobe, from the staple pieces to the accessories that will make a difference.
Look to High End Accessories Rather than Passing Trends
One thing that people can fall victim to is chasing the latest trends. While it may seem fashionable to pick the latest accessories showing up in the fashion magazines, the fact is that you want to focus more on quality and longevity in order to exude that air of power and confidence. Typically, the more traditional pieces tend to work better in the corporate office setting. Now that’s not to say you can’t accessorize with style;it just means you shouldn’t focus so much on the current trend.
Some of the best items to pick up include design brand purses and totes that can double as a briefcase, if you will. Take a look at some of these Saint Laurent bags from SSENSE, which range in size and purpose. You'll find everything from bags that resemble a tote - perfect for storing a small tablet and notebook in - to more traditional sized purses that act as a stylish and timeless accessory. Even the brand itself is one that exudes power and confidence, and is synonymous with some of the most striking designs out there.
SSENSE is well-known, not just for its selection of Saint Laurent bags, but also for other top designer bags, so you can really pick and choose what works best for your wardrobe and personal style.
Of course, your purse is just one of many accessories you can pick up; there is also jewelry, scarves, belts, and more. Again,you want to focus on high-end pieces that make a statement rather than just follow a passing trend. Another tip is to focus on one item at a time. Let’s say for example you have a lovely statement brooch - using that as your only accessory will create a much more powerful statement than loading on all kinds of items at once.
The Structured Blazer is a Must
Another must-have item in your wardrobe is a blazer, which is a no-brainer, but where you want to be particular is with the cut and fit. Look for a structured blazer that has wide shoulders, fits perfectly to your body, and has a more formal feel to it. It’s a huge step up from the typical off-the-rack blazer that so many people wear, and it will give you a much more put-together vibe.
It’s also a good idea to stick to the basic colors when picking up blazers. Your standard colors of black, navy, and brown may seem dull, but they are corporate office appropriate and are easy to pair with other pieces. Remember, you can add that sense of individual style back in with your accessories.
In order to get that perfect fit, keep in mind that it may also be necessary to have your blazer tailored. Simply purchasing a structured blazer isn’t always going to cut it; sometimes you may need the sleeves shortened, the waist taken in, an extra button added or moved, etc.
A Monotone Look Always Look Powerful
Another tip is to go ahead and embrace the monotone look. Choosing one color palette and wearing it from top to bottom, including your footwear and accessories, is a great way to look empowered. Your outfit won’t be fighting with certain elements, everything will just flow, and often a monotone look commands attention – exactly what you want in that corporate senior position.
Some of the best colors to play out that monotone look with include various shades of gray, light grays in particular, navy, cream, white, and tan or camel.
Don't be Afraid of a Pop of Color
On the other side of the spectrum, we have a bold pop of color, which can also be a great style moment in the office. Don't be afraid to go ahead and work in that bright pop of pink, red, purple, or green. Just be sure to use it as a pop rather than an all-over color palette.
Dressing the Part
Each of these tips will help you to dress the part and not only look put-together, but exude confidence in the corporate office setting.